The recent friendly match between Chelsea and Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) in Malaysia has left Xabi Alonso with a lot to ponder as he prepares for the upcoming Premier League season. The game ended in a draw, but it was far from a typical friendly.
One of the most striking aspects was the sheer number of players on Chelsea's roster. With 41 players, the squad is bloated, and the lack of European football next season adds to the pressure. Alonso's challenge is to integrate these players and find a cohesive unit in just two weeks, before the season starts against Fulham. This is a daunting task, especially with the recent return of Mykhailo Mudryk from a drugs ban and the addition of veterans like Jordan Henderson and Danny Welbeck.
The match itself was a fiery affair, with JDT playing with an intensity rarely seen in a preseason friendly. The Malaysian champions flew into challenges, unsettling Chelsea's players and forcing them to keep their tempers in check. The result was a series of flashpoints, with players like Liam Delap and Nicolas Jackson being booked for dissent and arguing with the referee.
The game also showcased the talent of some of Chelsea's young players, including Estêvão Willian and Morgan Rogers. Rogers, in particular, is a record signing and has the potential to be a key player for the club. However, the abundance of options on the wing, including Cole Palmer and Marc Guiu, means that Rogers will have to fight for his place.
The match also highlighted the need for Chelsea to improve their discipline. The club received 11 red cards last season, twice as many as any other side and a club record. This is a significant issue that needs to be addressed, and it remains to be seen whether the addition of veterans will be enough to sort the problem out.
Overall, the friendly match against JDT has left Alonso with a lot to think about. The squad is large and diverse, and the pressure to integrate these players and find a cohesive unit is immense. The match also highlighted the need for Chelsea to improve their discipline and focus, and it remains to be seen whether the club can rise to the challenge and have a successful season.
